- DIMAPUR — The
Wung Tangkhul Region of the Government of the People's Republic of Nagalim
(GPRN) has taken strong exception to a press communiqué issued on May 11 by the
Kuki-Zo Village Volunteer - Eastern Zone (KZVV-EZ), particularly over references
suggesting that certain villages in Ukhrul district are part of
"Kukiland".
- In a press release, the Wung Tangkhul Region of GPRN/NSCN
(IM) stated that they appreciate the expression of best wishes for the upcoming
Shiroi Lily Festival, as expected from all organisations that value the
importance of awareness for the endangered and rare Shiroi Lily, the state
flower of Manipur, and the need to promote responsible and sustainable tourism
in the state.
- While maintaining that the festival helps raise awareness of
the environment and local cultures of the Tangkhul Naga community and other
Naga communities, it criticised the message conveyed by the KZVV-EZ, which
indicated that certain villages in the Ukhrul area inhabited by the Kukis are
part of Kukiland. It noted that this is not only outrageous but also
provocative.
Also read: Naga public called for greater sensitivity on adoption
- “NSCN shall not tolerate if KZVV-EZ makes any wild attempt
to disturb the streaming tourists targeting any particular community travelling
to Ukhrul/Shiroi village. Let this message be loud and clear that the
territorial jurisdiction of the so-called Kukiland doesn't cover even an inch
of Naga territory in Ukhrul areas,” the statement read, adding that any such
misconceived message circulated in print media and on social media platforms
will be construed as a direct challenge to the NSCN in particular and the Nagas
in general.
